ICD-10 Code B56.1 – Rhodesiense trypanosomiasis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B56.1 – Rhodesiense trypanosomiasis
What it is
B56.1 identifies Rhodesiense trypanosomiasis, an infection caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense. Use it for East African sleeping sickness when documentation names this specific organism or disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical references describe a febrile illness that may progress to lymphadenopathy, neurologic involvement, and sleep disturbance in later disease.
When to use this code
Use B56.1 when the record clearly documents Rhodesiense trypanosomiasis, East African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness due to T. brucei rhodesiense. It is appropriate for confirmed diagnoses, not just exposure or screening.
If the provider only notes trypanosomiasis without species, check documentation before assigning this code. Use the most specific documented organism when available.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for gambiense trypanosomiasis, unspecified trypanosomiasis, or a history of infection. Check documentation if the record does not identify the species.
Coding tip
Match the code to the documented trypanosome species; specificity matters for accurate reporting.